BMW M Performance Automobiles Launches with X5 M50d & X6 M50d

BMW M Performance Automobiles is the very German way of saying that BMW is adding more models to their line up. In the past (as in yesterday) BMW offered two types of cars, non-M cars and M cars. M cars, such as the 1M, M3 and M5 start life as standard cars that are then gone over and upgrade down to the last nut and bolt to build the best possible road and track car. This new product offering from the BMW M Division is blurring the line between M and non-M cars. The general idea is that BMW M tuned these cars, but perhaps not to the same level as they did for the M5.

BMW M is launching this new product line with four newly developed models. These cars come with a significant boost in performance and hallmark M precision in the interplay of the powertrain, chassis and aerodynamics – coupled with unrestricted everyday utility and high levels of efficiency.

The BMW M550d xDrive, BMW M550d xDrive Touring, BMW X5 M50d and BMW X6 M50d models will have their world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show (8 – 18 March 2012). The market launch of the BMW M Performance Automobiles starts just a few weeks later. The BMW M550d xDrive and BMW M550d xDrive Touring models will be available in German showrooms from 12 May 2012, with the BMW X5 M50d and BMW X6 M50d following on 16 June 2012. Below are the selling prices of the BMW M Performance Automobiles in Germany, including VAT (19%):

The BMW X5 M50d and BMW X6 M50d will be produced at BMW Plant Spartanburg but don't get too excited. These BMW M Performance Autos are currently Euro bound only. BMW hasn't indicated what their strategy, if any, will be for bringing these beasts to the US.

M-specific tuning of suspension, bodyshell mounting, engine and transmission mounting, springs and dampers, all standard and optional chassis control systems, and the Servotronic mapping for the hydraulic steering; result is significantly enhanced agility and precision in dynamic driving situations, with the linear build-up of lateral forces familiar from M cars.

Nice units there and I know the X6 is not the practical choice but it sure looks sharp. Don't think we will see any of these in the states, too bad.

tonka858 commented: January 25, 2012, 9:18 pm

don't sweat on those Alcantara seats.

boostedX5SAV commented: January 25, 2012, 9:32 pm

I need to make more money

jashearer commented: January 26, 2012, 9:32 am

Quote:

Originally Posted by tonka858

don't sweat on those Alcantara seats.

Unless you're in your speedo with your shirt off, the Alcantara is typically positioned so that you don't have direct skin contact

At least that's the way my V is.

edit: just looked at the pic again and the thigh support is Alcantara as well... weird

Jay

UncleJ commented: January 26, 2012, 1:47 pm

Remember that "fantastic MPG" is in Imperial gallons! Ours will be less, if we ever get them and I doubt that. Today the beloved, unaccountable, and omnipotent CARB has announced more restrictions on cars, now mandating zero emissions (read electric and some few others) for a much higher percentage of cars sold in CA. Sadly the auto industry is rolling over on this one and does not seem willing to fight it in court. I predict that we will see a marked drop in performance as this spreads across the country. It has already started in some degree with the advent of the turbo 4 bangers in many cars, including BMW for the new MY. Makes me wonder if BMW and anyone else is going to bring their "good stuff" here in any kind of numbers.